Wed Sep 11 05:05:47 UTC 2024: ## Edel McMahon Takes Sole Captaincy of Irish Women’s Rugby Team
**BELFAST, IRELAND -** Edel McMahon will take on the sole captaincy of the Irish women’s rugby team in the coming weeks. Previously sharing the role with fellow forward Sam Monaghan, McMahon will lead the team into their upcoming match against Australia this Saturday in Belfast.
Monaghan, who has been sidelined with an ACL injury sustained in June, will be missing both the Australia game and the upcoming WXV 1 tournament in Canada. Despite her absence, McMahon expressed her gratitude for Monaghan’s support and leadership within the team.
The upcoming game against Australia will mark the start of Irish Rugby’s 150th-year celebrations and will also see several new faces on both the playing and coaching staff. While head coach Scott Bemand and scrum coach Denis Fogarty remain from the Six Nations, new additions to the team include forwards coach Alex Codling, defence coach Hugh Hogan, kicking coach Gareth Steenson, and World Rugby coach intern Marie-Louise Reilly.
The Irish team is also welcoming back experienced player Eimear Considine, who is vying for a spot in the starting lineup. Despite facing stiff competition, Considine is determined to earn her 27th Irish cap.
With a mix of new talent and seasoned veterans, the Irish women’s rugby team is gearing up for an exciting season under the leadership of Edel McMahon.
First Piper 